Can You Put Shoes in the Washer?

It happens to the best of us. Your favorite sneakers get muddy after a hike, your kids’ shoes come home from school covered in dirt, or your workout shoes start to smell less than fresh. You might be wondering if you can put shoes in the washer and dryer. The short answer is sometimes, but it depends on the material and the method, and it requires a little bit of prep work.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through which shoes are washer-safe, how to clean them properly, and what to avoid so you don’t accidentally ruin your favorite pair.

What Types of Shoes Can Go in the Washer?

Before tossing your sneakers in the wash, it’s important to consider the material. Some shoes handle the spin cycle like a champ, while others need special care.

Safe for the Washing Machine:

• Canvas shoes (like Converse or Vans)
• Athletic sneakers (made from mesh, rubber, or synthetics)
• Fabric-based slip-ons

Not Ideal for Machine Washing:

• Leather sneakers
• Suede shoes
• High-end designer shoes
• Shoes with memory foam soles or delicate embellishments

As a rule of thumb, you should never put leather shoes in the washer or dryer. Leather can warp, crack, and lose its shape in the wash. For leather footwear, it’s best to stick to hand cleaning with a soft brush and leather-safe cleaner.

How to Wash Shoes in the Washing Machine

1. Remove Laces and Insoles

A common question is, “Can you wash shoes with laces on?” Technically, yes—but for the best clean and to protect your washer, it’s recommended to remove them first. Laces can get tangled or stuck in the drum. Insoles should also be removed and washed separately by hand to avoid water damage or warping.

Pro Tip: Place laces in a mesh laundry bag so they don’t get lost or tangled during the wash.

2. Pre-Clean the Soles

Wipe or rinse off any heavy mud or dirt from the soles before placing shoes in your washer. This helps prevent debris from clogging your machine or staining the inside of your washer drum.

3. Protect the Shoes (and Your Washer)

Place your shoes in a mesh laundry bag or an old pillowcase to prevent them from banging around and damaging the drum or themselves. Add a few old towels to balance the load and minimize noise.

4. Choose the Right Settings

First, use cold water and select a gentle cycle. Then, choose a mild detergent and be sure to avoid bleach or harsh chemicals. 

5. Air Dry Your Shoes

You might be tempted to throw them in the dryer, but opt for air drying when possible.

Can You Put Shoes in the Dryer?

This is a hot topic (literally!). While many shoes can handle a spin in the washing machine, the dryer is another story.

High heat from the dryer can warp soles, loosen glue, shrink fabric, and cause rubber to crack. You should avoid putting your shoes in the dryer at all costs if your shoes have foam soles, if they’re leather, or if they have glued-on components. 

Alternatively, consider air drying your shoes at room temperature by setting them out for a few hours until they’re thoroughly dried. You can also stuff them with paper towels or newspaper to absorb moisture and retain their shape as they dry. 

If you must use a dryer, use the air-only or no heat setting, and place shoes in a laundry bag or tie the laces together and hang them from the dryer door, keeping them suspended while the drum spins.

How to Wash Shoes Without Damaging Them

To preserve the life of your shoes, follow these bonus tips:

• Spot clean stains first using mild soap and a soft cloth
• Avoid frequent machine washing and save it for when shoes are heavily soiled
• Dry completely before wearing again to avoid odor or mold
• Keep laces clean by washing them regularly (yes, even by machine if removed)

Keep Your Laundry Appliances Safe, Too

It’s not just about your shoes—your washer and dryer need protection, too. Washing heavy or bulky items like shoes can add wear and tear to your appliances. Be sure to use protective bags or cases, balance the load with towels, and inspect your drum for any signs of damage.

If your washer or dryer is covered under a home warranty, unexpected repairs are less stressful. Liberty Home Guard offers protection plans that cover the appliances you rely on daily, including your laundry room essentials.

So, can you put shoes in the washer and dryer? The answer is yes but with caution. Fabric and athletic shoes can usually handle a gentle wash, while leather sneakers and specialty shoes should be cleaned by hand. Always air dry when possible to preserve the shape and integrity of your footwear. By following these tips, you can extend the life of your shoes and your appliances, and keep everything smelling and looking fresh.

Want more expert tips for taking care of your home and appliances? Explore Liberty Home Guard’s resource center or get a free quote to protect your washer, dryer, and more with our award-winning home warranty plans.